Punch & Judy Cast Iron Mechanical Bank ca. 1884 by Shepard Hardware Company Buffalo, New York *SOLD*

Punch & Judy Cast Iron Mechanical Bank ca. 1884 by Shepard Hardware Company Buffalo, New York

This highly sought after mechanical Punch & Judy cast iron bank was made around 1884 by the Shepard Hardware Company of Buffalo, New York. This bank was produced in 3 different sizes which had small, medium, or large letters on the theater’s marquis. This version is the large letter version. It is in great all original condition with no restorations, repairs, and no touch ups. It shows the usual patina and wear from age and play, but we think that the faces on both Punch and Judy are some of the best we have seen in a while.

We have tested the bank and it is in working order. To operate the bank you pull out the top lever on the right hand side until it clicks in place making Punch raise his club to Judy. You then place a coin on Judy’s frying pan and press down on the lever underneath the top one to make Punch swing at Judy while she quickly flings the money in to the bank.

The coins can be removed by unscrewing the base plate. This bank does have the original base plate that is often missing; however, ours does have a piece broken off. The bank is approximately 6 1/8” x 7 ½” x 3 ¾”. This would be a great addition to any mechanical bank collection. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition.